Best Raleigh to Madison Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 968 mile move from North Carolina to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 38 Raleigh to Madison moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh compared to Madison. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Raleigh to Madison Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Raleigh to Madison
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 968 miles from Raleigh, NC to Madison, WI will cost on average $2,604 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Madison move is roughly $6,256. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,751 | 300 ft³ | 5.84 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,604 | 450 ft³ | 5.79 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,303 | 750 ft³ | 5.74 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,256 | 1100 ft³ | 5.69 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,020 | 1600 ft³ | 5.64 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,058 | 1800 ft³ | 5.59 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Madison Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
310 Progress Way Suite 140
Sun Prairie, WI, 53590
About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and commercial...
Services
- Residential moves
- Commercial moves
- Local/statewide moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2627768 / 1031866 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 173,000 (2023) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (2023) |
The Go To Guys, LLC
Bayside, WI, 53217
About The Go To Guys, LLC
The Go To Guys, LLC is a seasoned moving company with 30 years of experience in the industry. Based in the...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3760134 / 1338262 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2024) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Raleigh vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move, it can be helpful to find familiar comforts in your new city. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing popular neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC & Madison, WI. We've matched top neighborhoods in Raleigh with their Madison counterparts based on vibe, amenities, and overall feel, helping you feel right at home from day one.
| Raleigh | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North Hills | Hilldale | Similar mix of upscale shops and dining |
| Five Points | Willy Street | Bohemian feel with unique shops |
| Boylan Heights | Maple Bluff | Historic homes with strong community |
| Cameron Village | Monroe Street | Vibrant shopping and dining scene |
| Warehouse District | Atwood | Artsy area with a creative vibe |
| Midtown | Shorewood Hills | Urban conveniences with residential feel |
| Hayes Barton | Nakoma League | Both offer historic charm and elegance |
| Oberlin Village | University Heights | Academic influence with historic sites |
| Glenwood South | State Street | Central location with nightlife and shops |
| Historic Oakwood | Maple Bluff | Well-preserved architecture and community spirit |
If you're moving from the bustling area of North Hills in Raleigh, you'll find a similar vibe in Madison's Hilldale neighborhood, where both areas boast a lively mix of upscale shopping and dining options. Fans of Five Points' bohemian and artistic atmosphere will feel right at home on Willy Street in Madison, known for its unique boutiques, eateries, and vibrant community events. Meanwhile, if you were drawn to the warehouse district's eclectic arts scene and creative spaces, Atwood's similar artsy vibe and array of galleries, theaters, and live music spots might just catch your interest. Each Madison neighborhood mirrors its Raleigh counterpart in providing a unique blend of cultural, dining, and recreational opportunities, making your transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Things to Do in Madison
Explore Olbrich Botanical Gardens.- Discover history at Wisconsin State Capitol.
- Enjoy a concert at Overture Center for the Arts.
- Kayak on Lake Mendota.
- Sample cheese at Fromagination.
- Bike the Capital City Trail.
- Attend a Madison Mallards game.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Madison
Moving from one city to another is a significant life decision that involves weighing various factors. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Madison, WI . Understanding the cons and pros through comparative charts will help in making an informed decision.
Raleigh, NC- Hotter summers
- Longer commute times
- Less snow
- Smaller craft beer scene
Madison, WI- Cooler summers
- More bike-friendly
- Winter wonderland
- Vibrant craft beer culture
Madison, WI- Colder winters
- Smaller tech scene
- More urban
- Lesser cuisine diversity
Raleigh, NC- Mild winters
- Larger tech hub
- More suburban areas
- Wider variety of cuisines
Though the charts provide a quick comparison, a deeper look reveals more nuanced differences. Madison's thriving craft beer scene is a haven for enthusiasts, with established spots like Ale Asylum and new microbreweries popping up. The city's emphasis on bike transportation is evident in its extensive network of bike paths, making places like the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Madison Children's Museum easily accessible to residents and contributing to a healthier lifestyle. On the other hand, relocating might mean saying goodbye to Raleigh's mild winters and its burgeoning tech scene, where the Research Triangle Park has long been a catalyst for innovation and growth. Each city offers a unique blend of charms and opportunities, making the choice decidedly personal based on one's priorities and preferences.
Raleigh vs. Madison Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Madison aims to give you a taste of the food scene you'll be diving into. Understanding local cuisine is pivotal, as food is a significant part of local culture and reflects the essence of what it's like to live in an area.
| Raleigh | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pulled Pork BBQ | Beer-Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Eastern NC Barbecue | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Boiled Peanuts | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich | Vegan Bratwurst |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Raleigh to Madison, you're transitioning from a cuisine deeply rooted in rich, smoked flavors to one that embraces the hearty and comforting essence of the Midwest. In Madison, you'll find neighborhoods buzzing with culinary innovation, like Willy Street, where the local and organic food movement thrives. Places like Graze not only offer stunning views of the Capitol but also a chance to savor dishes that redefine Midwestern fare, including their take on the iconic Beer-Cheese Soup. As you explore Madison, you'll discover that this city melds traditional German influences, seen with dishes like Bratwurst, with a modern, health-conscious approach that doesn't compromise on taste.
Raleigh vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the importance of food in making a new city feel like home is essential. This comparison chart will help you discover your next go-to dining spots by leveraging your favorites from Raleigh, NC to Madison, WI , ensuring a seamless culinary transition during your move.
| Raleigh | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bida Manda | Ha Long Bay | Both offer a unique Southeast Asian culinary experience with a focus on freshness and flavor. |
| Poole's Diner | Graze | Both provide a modern take on classic American diner food, sourced from local ingredients. |
| Death & Taxes | L'Etoile | Similar upscale dining offering meticulously crafted dishes with locally sourced ingredients. |
| Garland | Banjou | Unique fusion menu items are crafted with creativity, capturing Garland's indie spirit. |
| Brewery Bhavana | Merchant | Emphasizes craft beer and creative, upscale bar fare in a bustling, stylish space. |
| Angus Barn | Smoky's Club | Both are iconic steak houses with a long history of serving superb cuts of meat in an inviting atmosphere. |
| La Farm Bakery | Batch Bakehouse | Both bakeries are beloved for their fresh, homemade bread, pastries, and sweets, with an emphasis on quality ingredients. |
| Morgan Street Food Hall | Public Market Madison | Both offer a vibrant collection of vendors selling a diverse range of street food and artisanal goods. |
| Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Avenue Club and The Bubble Up Bar | Both serve comforting, creative takes on Southern classics with a twist. |
| Clyde Cooper's BBQ | Smoky Jon's #1 BBQ | Both are institutions in their respective cities, revered for their authentic, smoky barbecue goodness. |
Discovering a new favorite like Ha Long Bay in Madison can replicate the deeply rooted Southeast Asian flavors you loved at Bida Manda in Raleigh, embracing both traditional and contemporary dishes. Meanwhile, steak aficionados moving from Raleigh will appreciate Smoky's Club's commitment to quality meats and timeless steakhouse ambience, mirroring the cherished experiences at Angus Barn. And for those mornings when nothing but a freshly baked pastry will do, the transition from the beloved La Farm Bakery to Madison's Batch Bakehouse promises a seamless continuation of indulging in high-quality, artisanal baked goods. Each Madison counterpart not only offers a culinary experience reminiscent of Raleigh's best but also introduces you to the distinct local flair and community vibes of your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, comparing the real estate markets of Raleigh, NC and Madison, WI gives key insights into your future living situation. Understand how housing cost, architectural style, and urban lifestyle differ in these cities for a well-informed decision.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Prairie, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, Open floor plans | Lakeside views, Proximity to parks |
When comparing Raleigh and Madison, it's clear that both have their unique allure in terms of real estate. Raleigh, with its colonial and craftsman-style homes, often boasts large yards and open floor plans, reflecting a preference for space and nature. Madison, on the other hand, takes pride in its proximity to parks and lakeside views, a testament to the city's high walkability and bikeability scores. This differentiation in lifestyle offerings is crucial to consider. Whether your heart leans toward Raleigh's spacious, more suburban appeal or Madison's close-knit, activity-rich environment, understanding these dynamics can significantly impact your satisfaction with your new home.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Madison, WI
1. Williamson-Marquette: This neighborhood is known for its community vibe and welcoming atmosphere, where you'll often see pets and their owners enjoying the many local parks and pet-friendly cafes.
2. Nakoma League: With its close proximity to the UW Arboretum, your pets will love the extensive trails and natural areas ideal for long walks and exploration.
3. Shorewood Hills: This area boasts ample green spaces and a pet-friendly attitude, with easy access to the Shorewood Hills Pool for summer dog swims and several off-leash parks nearby.
Raleigh vs. Madison Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, grasping the differences in weather can make the transition smoother. This guide aims to compare the climatic conditions between Raleigh, NC and Madison, WI, offering insights into what you can expect. Understanding these variations will help you prepare for your new hometown.
Raleigh, NC
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Raleigh to Madison, you'll experience a significant shift from milder, humid winters to the cold, snowy winters synonymous with the Midwest. While both cities enjoy a fair amount of sunshine, Madison's colder climate means more indoor activities during the winter months. Summer in Madison is pleasantly mild compared to the hot and humid summers of Raleigh, which might be a welcome change for some. Additionally, while Raleigh residents brace for hurricanes, in Madison, snowstorms and frigid temperatures pose the most significant natural threats. Adjusting to these differences will be an important part of your moving process.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Madison
When planning a relocation, understanding the financial implications is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison highlights key economic factors to consider if you're moving from Raleigh, NC to Madison, WI . It provides insights into what your money can do for you in these cities and how your quality of life may be affected.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 7.65 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 1.94 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 5.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Government, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderately Affluent | Comparatively Affluent |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Moderate to High |
Moving from Raleigh to Madison, you'll find the cost of living slightly higher, primarily due to the differences in housing costs and state income tax rates. While Raleigh offers a more affordable setting with a relatively low property tax rate, Madison's cost of living is bolstered by higher income and property taxes, which could impact your budgeting. However, salaries in Madison compensate somewhat for the increased fiscal demands. Both cities are robust in healthcare and education but differ notably in their primary industries; technology in Raleigh versus government in Madison. This indicates potential variances in job market opportunities tailored to these fields. Furthermore, understanding the subtle differences in economic affluence and the varying degrees of poverty and homelessness can offer a broader perspective on community support structures available in each location.
Raleigh vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot highlighting the political and religious make-up of the residents between Raleigh, NC, and Madison, WI . Whether moving from Raleigh to Madison, understanding these aspects can offer insights into the community culture and values you're about to immerse yourself in.
| Raleigh | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Competitive elections | Progressive policies |
| Religion | Christian majority | Less religiously affiliated |
While both Raleigh and Madison lean Democratic, Madison is known for its strong liberal stance and commitment to progressive policies. This could be seen as a reflection of the city's population, which is generally less religiously affiliated compared to Raleigh's Christian majority. In Raleigh, you might find the political landscape a bit more competitive, reflective of North Carolina's broader political diversity. This contrasts with Madison's solidly progressive local governance. Understanding these nuances will help you anticipate the community dynamics and cultural values in your new home.
Raleigh vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
As you consider moving from Raleigh, NC to Madison, WI, understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic conditions is crucial. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Madison aims to prepare you for what lies ahead in your new city.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
While both cities boast vibrant communities and diverse cultural activities, your experience commuting might differ significantly. In Raleigh, you may find the average commute time slightly longer and traffic more congested compared to Madison. This is attributed largely to Raleigh's layout and its growing population. Public transit in Madison is more developed and reliable, making it easier for residents to get around without a car. Hence, if you relish the idea of lesser dependence on a car for your daily commute, Madison has an advantage. Remember, adapting to your new city's transit system can significantly impact your daily routine and overall satisfaction with your move.
Additional Resources
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